Gary Hart could be fit for Albion’s crunch clash against Stockport after all.

The long-serving striker’s hamstring damage is less serious than first feared.

The Seagulls believe that, with intensive treatment and an injection, Hart has a chance of being fit for Saturday’s final game of the season at Withdean, which Russell Slade’s side must win to guarantee staying up.

Hart limped off after only nine minutes of Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Huddersfield. Slade was initially resigned to being without the rejuvenated 32-year-old but the signs are now more encouraging.

Physio Malcolm Stuart revealed: “If we are right in our diagnosis then he has got a chance.

“We don’t think he has torn the hamstring, we believe it is a strain that has bled.”

If Hart recovers it will be a huge boost to Albion’s hopes of claiming the victory they need.

He has been in sparkling form since returning from long-term knee trouble, setting up lots of goals and forging an effective partnership with the prolific Lloyd Owusu.

Dean Cox is poised to give Albion a further fillip by resuming training today.

The diminutive playmaker was hampered at Huddersfield by a knee injury sustained in last week’s win at Bristol Rovers.